Trinidad Piarco Airport

POS Airport Insights & Guide

Anthony Bruno

Updated: August 28, 2024

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• Frequent Flier Tips
• Navigating the Terminals
• Connecting Between Terminals
• Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
• Parking Facilities & Options
• Transportation Options
• Airport Hotels
• Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
• Passenger Services
• Flight Status Info
• Airport Facts & Stats
• Airport History
• Airport Contact Information
• Frequently Asked Questions

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Piarco International Airport (POS) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from POS-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"Piarco International is relatively straightforward, but it's always good to know that the check-in counters are located on the ground floor. Once you pass through security, you'll find yourself in the departure lounge, which has plenty of seating and shops." — Rajesh P., Tunapuna, Trinidad, August 2023

"If you’re connecting flights, keep an eye on the flight information displays. They’re updated regularly and will help you navigate between gates efficiently." — Anisa K., Arima, Trinidad, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The airport is about a 45-minute drive from Port of Spain. I recommend using the official airport taxis for a hassle-free experience. They have fixed rates and are very reliable." — Michael J., Port of Spain, Trinidad, September 2023

"If you're on a budget, the PTSC buses are a good option. They run regularly between the airport and the city, and the fares are very reasonable." — Leila M., San Juan, Trinidad, August 2023

Parking

"Parking at Piarco International is quite convenient. The long-term parking lot is just a short walk from the terminal, and the rates are affordable. Make sure to arrive early during peak travel times to secure a spot." — David R., Chaguanas, Trinidad, July 2023

"For short-term parking, the lot is right in front of the terminal building. It's perfect if you're just picking someone up or dropping them off." — Priya S., Arouca, Trinidad, August 2023

Inside the Airport

"The food court at Piarco International has a good variety of local and international options. I always grab a roti from the local food stall before my flight." — Sunil V., Couva, Trinidad, July 2023

"If you need to do some last-minute shopping, the duty-free stores have a great selection of local products and souvenirs. It's a good way to spend your time while waiting for your flight." — Nadia T., Sangre Grande, Trinidad, August 2023

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"To avoid delays, try to arrive at least three hours before your international flight. Security lines can get long, especially during peak travel seasons." — Kareem B., Maracas, Trinidad, July 2023

"If you want to relax before your flight, the VIP lounge is a great option. It’s quieter than the main terminal and offers complimentary snacks and drinks." — Aisha L., Diego Martin, Trinidad, August 2023

Getting to Know POS Airport

Discover Trinidad Piarco Airport (POS), the main international gateway to Trinidad and Tobago, known for its captivating murals that showcase local culture. This airport offers a seamless travel experience with its efficient services and amenities. Need a quick, detailed guide for navigating POS? Our Comprehensive Airport Guide has you covered, from flight updates to shopping and dining options.

Navigating POS's Terminals

POS has one main terminal building with two levels. The terminal has 14 gates, numbered 1-14, and is divided into two concourses: the North concourse and the South concourse. The North concourse has gates 1-7 and is primarily used by Caribbean Airlines, while the South concourse has gates 8-14 and is used by other airlines such as American Airlines and British Airways.

Inside the terminal, passengers can find a variety of services and amenities including duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, and lounges. There are also ATMs, currency exchange offices, and a post office for those who need to take care of financial matters. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal building.

Passengers can easily navigate the terminal using the signage and information screens located throughout the building. There are also helpful airport staff members available to assist passengers with any questions or concerns they may have.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

POS Airport has one main terminal building that houses both the arrivals and departures areas. The terminal is split into two levels, with domestic and international flights operating on separate levels.

Passengers can easily navigate between the levels and the various areas of the terminal on foot, as the terminal is compact and well-signposted. There are no shuttle buses or trains between terminals as there is only one terminal building.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At Trinidad Airport, picking up and dropping off passengers is a straightforward process. The airport has designated curbside areas for passenger pick-up and drop-off, which are located outside of the terminal buildings. It is important to note that parking in these areas is strictly prohibited, and vehicles must not be left unattended. Drivers who need to wait for their passengers are advised to use the airport's cell-phone waiting areas, which are located nearby and are free of charge.

Passengers who are being dropped off at the airport should be aware that they will need to make their way to the terminal building after being dropped off. Similarly, those who are being picked up should arrange a meeting point with their driver, as drivers are not permitted to wait for their passengers in the curbside areas. Overall, the process of picking up and dropping off passengers at POS is easy and convenient, as long as drivers follow the designated rules and regulations.

Parking Facilities & Options

Traveling to POS Airport and need to park your car? The airport offers several parking options to suit your needs.

The airport has two parking garages located near the terminals, offering both short-term and long-term parking options. The parking garages are a convenient option for those who want to park their car close to the terminal.

If you prefer a more economical option, off-airport parking is available nearby. The off-airport parking facilities offer shuttle services to and from the airport terminals, making it a hassle-free option for travelers.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, the airport also offers a cell phone waiting area. The waiting area is located near the airport entrance and provides a convenient place to wait for your loved ones without having to pay for parking.

Handicapped parking is available in both the parking garages and the off-airport parking facilities. The airport provides accessible parking spaces, ramps, and elevators to ensure that all travelers can access the airport terminals easily.

Transportation Options

Trinidad Piarco Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help you get to your destination quickly and easily:

• Car Rentals: There are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, and Hertz. The car rental facilities can be found in the Arrivals area of the airport. It is advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
• Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with drop-off areas located outside the Arrivals area. Fares are regulated by the government and are based on the distance traveled. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings.
• Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available at the airport. Pickup areas for these services are located outside the Arrivals area. Note that some restrictions may apply, such as limited availability during peak travel times and restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage.
• Airport Shuttles: There are several airport shuttle options available. Private shuttle services can be arranged in advance, while public shuttle services are also available. Pickup areas for shuttle services are located outside the Arrivals area. Fares vary depending on the service provider and destination, so it is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to get the best rate.
• Public Transportation: For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, public transportation is available. The airport is served by several bus routes, with pickup areas located outside the Arrivals area. Fares are typically low, but travel times may be longer than other transportation options. It is a good option for travelers who are not in a hurry and want to save money.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're looking for a luxurious suite, a convenient layover spot, or a cozy bed and breakfast, the area surrounding the airport offers a variety of accommodations to meet every traveler's needs. Options include the Grand Diamond Hotel Trinidad, In-flight Suites, Airport Suites Hotel, SHAK Condos, and the Piarco AirBNB, all of which are located less than a mile away from the airport. For those willing to venture a bit further, the Runway Hotel, Montecristo Inn, Derick's Inn, Piarco Village Suites, and the Holiday Inn Express Trincity also offer excellent accommodations. Each of these hotels provides a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and local charm. For more information, check out our comprehensive list of Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to make your travel experience more enjoyable. For a quick bite, head to Rituals Coffee House, located in the Departures area. They offer a range of coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. If you're looking for a sit-down meal, check out TGI Fridays, located in the food court of the Departures area. They offer a variety of American-style dishes, including burgers, ribs, and salads.

For shopping, be sure to check out The Shop, located in the Departures area. They offer a variety of souvenirs, snacks, and travel essentials. If you're looking for duty-free shopping, head to the Caribbean Airlines Duty-Free Store, located in the Departures area. They offer a range of products, including liquor, tobacco, and perfume.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Trinidad Piarco Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

• Free Wi-Fi: Trinidad Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
• Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the arrivals area for your convenience.
• Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Trinidad Airport features designated play areas located throughout the airport.
• Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
• ATM: ATMs are available in both the arrivals and departures areas of the terminal, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
• Medical Center: In case of a medical emergency, the airport has a fully equipped medical center with trained medical staff available 24/7.
• Airport Lounges: Trinidad Airport features the VIP Flyers Club Lounge, accessible to all passengers for a fee or through membership programs. The lounge offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and a comfortable seating area to relax before your flight. Additionally, the lounge provides workstations and a quiet space for those needing to catch up on work or rest.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date with the status of your flight. Luckily, there are several ways to do so at POS in Trinidad and Tobago.

One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays can be found throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Another convenient option is to download your airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer apps that allow passengers to receive push notifications about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. Passengers can also opt to receive updates via text or email.

Finally, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at POS Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

• Location: Trinidad Piarco Airport (POS) is located approximately 25 kilometers east of Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
• Terminals: The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 for international flights and Terminal 2 for regional flights.
• Airlines Served: Major airlines include Caribbean Airlines, American Airlines, and JetBlue Airways. For a full list of airlines, visit the POS Airlines Served page.
• Passenger Traffic: The airport handles approximately 15,000 passengers daily.
• Daily Flights: Trinidad Piarco Airport sees around 150 daily flights.
• Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from POS are Miami, New York, Toronto, London, and Caracas.
• Hub Status: The airport is a hub for Caribbean Airlines, LIAT, and Amerijet International.

Airport History

POS Airport, located in Trinidad and Tobago, has a rich history dating back to the early 1940s. Here are some of the significant events in the airport's history:

• 1941 - The airport was constructed by the United States Army Air Forces during World War II.
• 1942 - The airport was officially opened as Piarco International Airport.
• 1962 - Trinidad and Tobago gained independence from Britain, and the airport became the country's main international gateway.
• 1989 - The airport underwent a major renovation and expansion project to accommodate the increasing number of passengers.
• 2001 - The airport was renamed to its current name, Trinidad Piarco International Airport.
• 2011 - A new terminal building was opened to further enhance the airport's capacity and facilities.
• 2020 - The airport was temporarily closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and reopened with strict health and safety measures in place.

Today, the airport serves as a hub for Caribbean Airlines and offers flights to various destinations in North and South America, Europe, and the Caribbean.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Trinidad Piarco Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

• IATA Code: POS
• Airport Website
• Phone: +1 868-669-4777
• Email: [email protected]
• Mailing Address: Piarco International Airport, P.O. Box 1318, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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